In a shocking incident at Smith State Prison in Glennville, Georgia an inmate fatally shot a prison kitchen employee before turning the gun on himself early Sunday morning, June 16, 2024. The Georgia Department of Corrections (GDC) confirmed the incident, which occurred around 4:30 a.m., leaving both the inmate and the employee dead.
Jaydrekus Hart was serving a 20-year sentence for voluntary manslaughter and aggravated battery. He shot 24-year-old Aureon Shavea Grace, a food service worker employed by Aramark, while she was working in the prison kitchen. Grace was declared dead at the location, while Hart, after shooting himself, was taken to a nearby hospital, where he died from his injuries.
During the investigation, authorities discovered that Hart and Grace had a personal relationship. A suicide note was found, further complicating the case. The investigation is ongoing, with officials still trying to determine how Hart obtained the firearm inside the prison.
“This was an isolated incident,” the Georgia Department of Corrections stated. “We are conducting a thorough investigation to understand the circumstances leading up to this event.”
Aramark spokesperson Debbie Albert expressed the company’s grief: “We are deeply saddened by the loss of our colleague and extend our heartfelt condolences and prayers to her family.” The company added, “We are cooperating fully with the Georgia Department of Corrections in their investigation.”
Friends and family fondly remembered Grace. “It was a joy working with you and getting to know your infectious laughter,” a colleague wrote on an obituary page. Another close friend described her as “kind-hearted” and “genuine,” highlighting her loss’s significant impact on everyone who knew her.
This incident has raised concerns about security measures within Georgia’s prison system. The state’s correctional facilities have faced scrutiny and criticism over the years, with ongoing investigations into alleged civil rights abuses and other systemic issues.
In response, Governor Brian Kemp and the GDC have announced plans to reassess Georgia’s prison system’s operational efficiency and effectiveness. The state has partnered with Guidehouse, Inc. to review prison facilities and policies comprehensively. This assessment aims to develop recommendations to improve security and prevent similar tragedies in the future.